Fixed number portability delayed

Bahamian telecoms watchdog the Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) has postponed the introduction of fixed number portability (FNP), which was scheduled for 3 September 2013. In a statement on its website, URCA said: ‘Based on its latest technical reviews of operator readiness for FNP implementation, URCA is not satisfied that consumers would at this time receive a seamless and satisfactory number porting experience.’ The regulator added that it expects to issue a final determination on the matter before the end of September, at which time a revised schedule for the implementation of FNP will be outlined.

TeleGeography’s GlobalComms Database notes that the Bahamian fixed line market is home to two players, incumbent operator Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) and Cable Bahamas. Local newspaper Guardian Business cites Dave Burrows, Cable Bahamas’ head of marketing, as saying that the company is ready to launch FNP and attributing the delay to its sole competitor.